Game on, tennis fans! 🎾
In an electrifying start to the 2025 Australian Open, 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic faced an unexpected challenge. His first match with former rival Andy Murray as his coach didn't kick off as planned, especially against 19-year-old Grand Slam debutant Nishesh Basavareddy.
Djokovic dropped the first set 4-6, but the Serbian superstar wasn't ready to bow out. Channeling his signature grit, he powered through to claim a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory. Talk about a comeback! 💪
\"I'm obviously thrilled to have him in my corner,\" Djokovic said about Murray. \"I must say, it was a bit strange having him courtside, given our history, but it's great to have him on the same side of the net. He gave me some great advice mid-match.\"
The duo, both 37 and born a week apart, have been rivals since they were 12, battling in epic Grand Slam finals. Now, with Murray retiring at the Paris Olympics last August and joining Djokovic's team in November, they're a dynamic duo we're all excited to watch! 🌟
Meanwhile, Spain's Carlos Alcaraz began his quest to complete a career Grand Slam in style. The 21-year-old sensation breezed past Kazakhstan's Alexander Shevchenko with a 6-1, 7-5, 6-1 victory. He's aiming to become the youngest man to capture all four Grand Slam titles. No pressure, right? 😏
On a somber note, 10th-seeded Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov had to retire due to injury while trailing 7-5, 2-1 against Italian lucky loser Francesco Passaro, making him the first top-10 player to exit the tournament.
Stay tuned for more thrilling action from Melbourne Park! 🎉
Reference(s):
Djokovic survives Australian Open scare, Alcaraz reaches second round
cgtn.com
